• Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed held high-level talks in Djibouti on regional security, trade, and economic cooperation.

• The visit comes amid tensions following Ethiopia-Somaliland port access agreements and Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.

• Djibouti seeks to diversify port partnerships, including deals with Egypt, to reduce reliance on Ethiopian trade transit.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali visited Djibouti on Sunday, January 11, 2026, for an official meeting with President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh. The leaders discussed regional geopolitics, peace and security, and bilateral cooperation in trade, logistics, and development.

“These talks reaffirm our shared commitment to stability, economic integration, and mutual prosperity,” Abiy Ahmed said.

This morning, I arrived in Djibouti and was warmly received by President @IsmailOguelleh. Our discussions focused on geopolitical dynamics, regional peace and security, and strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, logistics, and development, reaffirming our… pic.twitter.com/vMvoKpInfn

— Abiy Ahmed Ali ?? (@AbiyAhmedAli) January 11, 2026

The visit occurs against a backdrop of regional tensions. Ethiopia and Somaliland signed an agreement in January 2024 giving Addis Ababa direct access to the Red Sea through the Port of Berbera, potentially reducing Ethiopia’s reliance on Djibouti’s ports. Sources indicate that 95% of Ethiopian trade currently transits through Djibouti.

Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland also heightened regional sensitivities. Djibouti called the recognition “contrary to fundamental principles of international law and a risk to regional stability.”

In December 2025, Djibouti signed several agreements with Egypt covering ports, logistics, and energy. These deals aim to diversify Djibouti’s economic partnerships and reduce dependency on Ethiopia, which maintains disputes with Egypt over Nile water management.

The Ethiopian Prime Minister’s visit signals a diplomatic effort to strengthen bilateral ties and reassure Djibouti amid shifting regional trade and security dynamics.

This article was initially published in French by Lydie Mobio

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum